Since the beginning of the Russia–Ukraine war in 2022, India has significantly increased its imports of discounted Russian crude oil, making Russia India’s largest oil supplier. The United States and other Western countries have criticized these purchases, arguing that they indirectly fund Russia’s war effort. India, however, maintains that these imports are vital for its energy security and that it retains a policy of strategic autonomy. At the same time, India has called for an “early end to conflict” and positioned itself as a potential neutral mediator, given its close ties with both Russia and Ukraine. Ukraine has publicly urged India to play a more proactive role in peace facilitation. Recently, the Trump Administration has levied heavy tariffs on India in response to their decision to not stop procuring Russian Oil.